Tulsa -

Tulsa is getting its hands on a WNBA team with championship experience.

WNBA President Donna Orender, Tulsa Mayor Kathy Taylor, Governor Henry and other officials gathered for today's announcement at the Mayo Hotel in downtown Tulsa. A group of investors seeking to bring a team to Tulsa are purchasing the current Detroit Shock team -- a team that has won three WNBA titles since 2003, including the 2008 championship.

"We are thrilled to have a team in Tulsa with such a strong championship pedigree, and we look forward to continuing the tradition of success that has been its hallmark," said Bill Cameron, lead investor and chairman of Tulsa Pro Hoops, LLC. "We are confident this team will make Tulsa proud, both on the court and in the community."

The investors have already chosen former TU and Arkansas coach Nolan Richardson to be the head coach and general manager of the team.

The Shock has been in Detroit since 1998. Last month, the team lost in the Eastern Conference Finals after rallying to earn a playoff spot. Tom Wilson, President of Palace Sports and Entertainment, called the decision to sell the team one of the toughest they have ever made and one that was not reached easily.

"The Shock has been a true force in the WNBA, but the fact of the matter is that the economic realities have caused us to make this decision," Wilson said. "We deeply appreciate what the Shock have meant to Detroit and want to publicly thank the players, coaches and the entire organization for their class, commitment and championships. They represented Detroit well and we are delighted that they have found a new and exciting home in Tulsa. We are sure the fans in Tulsa will quickly embrace these dedicated players."

It's unclear if the team will keep the 'Shock' name or what the team's name will be if it does change.

The Shock's leading scorer is Deanna Nolan, who averaged 16.9 points per game in 2009, including 21.6 points per game during the playoffs. Shavonte Zellous averaged 11.9 points per game.

Fans can obtain information about tickets and the team by logging onto www.wnba.com/tulsa, sending an email to tickets@wnbatulsa.com or by calling 1-877-90-HOOPS (46677).

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